Student work packet for learning the elements and principles of design

1. GOOD DESIGN RULES!
Elements Of design:
The ABC’s of design. These are what we use to create visual art works.
Line-
Shape-
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Texture-
Value-
Space-
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2. •
Color- Artist’s TOOL for combining colors
• Color wheel:
Monochromatic:
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• Analogous:
• Triadic:
• Complementary:

3. • Neutrals:
PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN
The same laws that govern our physical world—(i.e. gravity) also affect the visual
principles of design.
Balance-
Weight: Just like gravity affects how to stand or how to build a structure (the
heavier items are at the bottom, or the base is wider ), we follow that same idea in
the visual realm. Larger, darker (visually heavier looking) items go towards the
bottom of the page.
Symmetrical or Asymmetrical: Think of dancing vs. standing still. When we are
standing still we are usually symmetrical and equal on both sides to balance the weight
evenly. But when dancers move, they form many angles and flowing movements that are
not equal on both sides. They make asymmetrical forms with their bodies and still have
balance. It is just a matter of shifting the weight. This is very intriguing to our eyes.
Divide & Conquer:

4. Contrast:
“Too much of a good thing is still too much”! We don’t dress ourselves from head
to toe in the same color or pattern, neither should we dress our pages in one color or
pattern. (including white) Variety is the spice of design! A little pattern, a little
solid, a little accessories—makes a happy page!
Movement-
We are more excited and attracted to something that is in motion compared to
something that is static. Would you rather watch another person sit or dance? We
are visually attracted to a line that is diagonal or wavy compared to a line that is
horizontal.
Harmony/Unity—
Repeat, repeat, repeat! Take one element (line, shape color or pattern) and repeat it
at least 3-5 times so it starts to have a small dominance.
Focal Point—

5. Emphasis---